Porsche News

New Porsche 911 (997) GT3 Cup Race Car

With the 2008 motorsport season almost upon us, Porsche have upped power on their new 911 GT3 Cup and will produce a category record 265 examples of the now 420 bhp production-based racing car. Produced in Stuttgart, the 26 examples heading for racing use in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup, Porsche Carrera Cups and GT3 Cup Challenges will be delivered early March next year.

Gaining 20 bhp over the output of the previous model, the 3.6-litre six-cylinder boxer unit now produces 420 bhp. And with a kerb weight of just 1,150 kg in race trim and therefore a power-to-weight ratio of 2.7 kilos per horsepower, is some 245 kg lighter (at 3.4 kg / hp) than a standard new 415 bhp GT3. A six-speed sequential transmission allowing for seamless full throttle shifting has been optimised for the new more powerful engine characteristics.

Keeping up with the production version, the GT3 Cup's rear end has been significantly updated, among the changes being the insertion of air venting slits to provide better heat dispersal. A modified exhaust system, producing a more commanding Formula 1 reminiscent sound, and exclusive PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes, which reduces weight by 20 kg and increases braking response and lifetime reliability.